I have a 50 gallon Richmond Power vent water heater. The burner would try to light but would not. I replaced the vacuum switch, but this did not solve the issue. The tygon tube that runs from the vacuum switch to the blower accumulates a little condensation that when I blow that out the water heater then works fine. When I first started doing this the water heater would light ok for about a week, but now I have to do this everytime the water heater wants to light. I have checked the duct and it is free of obstruction. Does the blower motor get weak as to know get enough suction on the vacuum tube to pull the condensation out of the line? Or is the condensation in the line another issue?
Water Heaters - Audiovox - Richmond 6G40-36F 6-Year Tall Gas Water Heater
Answers & Comments
The accumulation of condensation in the vent piping is more than likly the problem. I am guessing the vent piping is either 3-inch or 2-inch. You need to splice in a "T" fitting reduced down to 3/4-inch with a 3/4-inch tubing attached and run this to a sutible drain. This will drain the condensation elimiating the accumulation in the vent assembly. Install this "T" fitting about 3-feet down stream from the vent motor.These supples and fittings can be found at a Home Depot or Lowes store.
Will adding the 3/4 inch drain line to the vent piping potentially lead to introducing exhaust fumes into the space at the drain?
Install a trap in the exiting side of the 3/4-inch and this should not be a problem.